Cinnamon Bay St John USVI
St. John's longest beach, offering soft white sand, clear turquoise waters, and historic plantation ruins. A serene alternative to busier bays.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Crowds thin out, sunset views
Cinnamon Bay St John USVI
Best Time
Crowds thin out, sunset views
Highlights
Must-see attractions
St. John's longest beach, offering soft white sand, clear turquoise waters, and historic plantation ruins. A serene alternative to busier bays.
"This insanely beautiful beach is at Cinnamon Bay in the Virgin Islands National Park on St. John."
🚗 Arrive Early for Parking
Parking fills up fast, especially with day-trippers. Get there early to snag a spot! :car:
🤿 Snorkel Gear Recommended
Bring your own snorkel gear for exploring the reefs and spotting sea turtles. :ocean:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Expansive White Sand Beach
Cinnamon Bay
St. John's longest beach offers ample space to relax, with soft sand and clear turquoise waters perfect for swimming.
Snorkeling Adventures
Near the small cay
Explore vibrant underwater life and coral reefs, with a good chance of spotting sea turtles.
Historic Plantation Ruins
American Hill Trail
Hike to the open-air ruins of an 1800s plantation for a glimpse into the island's past.
+1Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds at Cinnamon Bay
Camp or Day Trip: Plan Your Visit
For day visitors, remember that while parking is available, it can fill up quickly. Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Arrive Early for Parking
Parking fills up fast, especially with day-trippers. Get there early to snag a spot! :car:
🤿 Snorkel Gear Recommended
Bring your own snorkel gear for exploring the reefs and spotting sea turtles.
🚶♀️ Easy Hike to Ruins
The trail to the plantation ruins is manageable, even in flip-flops. :hiking_boot:
🍹 Grab a Painkiller
Enjoy a refreshing Painkiller cocktail at the beach bar after a day in the sun. :tropical_drink:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Arrive Early for Parking
Parking fills up fast, especially with day-trippers. Get there early to snag a spot! :car:
🤿 Snorkel Gear Recommended
Bring your own snorkel gear for exploring the reefs and spotting sea turtles.
🚶♀️ Easy Hike to Ruins
The trail to the plantation ruins is manageable, even in flip-flops. :hiking_boot:
🍹 Grab a Painkiller
Enjoy a refreshing Painkiller cocktail at the beach bar after a day in the sun. :tropical_drink:
🏕️ Campground Amenities
The camp store offers snacks, coffee, and local crafts for campers.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Cinnamon Bay is celebrated for its stunning, expansive white sand beach and clear turquoise waters, offering a more relaxed atmosphere than its busier counterparts. Visitors appreciate the ample space, the option for shade, and the convenience of on-site amenities like a food shack and camp store. While snorkeling is decent, some find it less vibrant than other St. John spots. Parking can be a challenge during peak times, and it can get crowded with day-trippers.
"Nice beach to hang out and catch some sun and ocean waves. Not great for snorkeling and it gets packed with local tourists and those coming over from St. Thomas for the day. Parking can be a challenge as well. Go early to grab a spot."
c “cfl” lane
"Everyone talks about Trunk Bay being the most beautiful in the world, but do not skip this one! We packed up early and walked to the very far end near the black rocks. Spent the whole day relaxing feeling like we were the only ones on the beach. Everyone clears out at 4 to catch their cruise’s or their dinner plans so if you want that picturesque sunset walk on the beach, you’ll get it! We snorkeled a lot on St.John so the days we came here we drank the day away :). A short walk back to the entrance and amazing painkillers, strong ones too! Don’t let people on Facebook groups scare you, bring your Neso and just be considerate of others"
Christy Sharkey
"Absolutely beautiful! The hike down to Cinnamon Bay wasn't bad at all, my mom did it in flip flops.
Cinnamon Bay, located in the Virgin Islands National Park, is a stunning beach that offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and relaxation. The hike down to the beach is a rewarding experience in itself, with breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
Once you reach the beach, you'll be greeted by soft, white sand and crystal-clear turquoise waters. The water is incredibly warm and inviting, making it perfect for swimming, snorkeling, or simply wading in the shallows. The beach is also a great spot to relax and soak up the sun.
With its stunning scenery, pristine waters, and peaceful atmosphere, Cinnamon Bay is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to St. John."
Amalia Hartling
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Cinnamon Bay is accessible by car or taxi. If driving, arrive early as parking can be challenging. Taxis are readily available on St. John and can drop you directly at the beach entrance.
Yes, there is parking available at Cinnamon Bay, but it tends to fill up quickly, especially during peak hours and with day-trippers. Arriving early is highly recommended.
Absolutely! Taxis are a convenient way to reach Cinnamon Bay. They will drop you off at the main entrance, making it easy to access the beach.
Yes, the access to Cinnamon Bay is generally easy. The hike down to the beach from the parking area is not strenuous and can be done in flip-flops.
On St. John, you can get around using taxis, rental cars, or by exploring on foot. For Cinnamon Bay, taxis are a popular and reliable option.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there is no entry fee for Cinnamon Bay itself, as it is part of the Virgin Islands National Park. Enjoy the beautiful beach without an admission charge.
Cinnamon Bay is generally accessible during daylight hours. The campground and camp store have specific operating hours, but the beach itself is open for visitors to enjoy throughout the day.
For day visits to the beach, no advance booking is required. However, if you plan to camp at Cinnamon Bay Campground, reservations are highly recommended, especially during peak season.
Yes, there are bathrooms available at Cinnamon Bay, which is convenient for beachgoers.
Yes, you are welcome to bring your own food and drinks to Cinnamon Bay. There is also a camp store and a food/drink shack available for purchases.
🎫 🏝️ Onsite Experience
At Cinnamon Bay, you can swim, sunbathe, snorkel, hike to the plantation ruins, and relax on the expansive beach. The campground also offers a unique experience. +1
Cinnamon Bay offers decent snorkeling, especially near the small cay and around the black rocks. While some find it not as spectacular as other spots, it's still a good place to see marine life and turtles.
The sand at Cinnamon Bay is described as soft and white, contributing to its beautiful tropical beach atmosphere.
Yes, Cinnamon Bay offers shady spots, making it comfortable for visitors who want to relax away from direct sunlight.
The water at Cinnamon Bay is clear, brilliant turquoise, and incredibly warm, making it perfect for swimming and wading.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there is a food and drink shack at Cinnamon Bay, and the camp store offers snacks and locally roasted coffee.
The food options typically include snacks and drinks. The camp store also carries items like charcoal for grills, and some gluten-free and dairy-free selections.
Yes, you can purchase drinks at the food and drink shack. Many visitors also enjoy the famous 'Painkiller' cocktails.
While there isn't a full-service restaurant, there is a food and drink shack offering refreshments and snacks.
The 'Painkiller' cocktail is a highly recommended and potent drink available at the beach bar.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture stunning shots of the long white sand beach, turquoise waters, and the historic plantation ruins. The small cay also offers picturesque views.
Cinnamon Bay is excellent for drone photography, offering sweeping aerial views of the coastline, waves, and surrounding national park.
Early morning or late afternoon provides softer light for photography, with late afternoon offering the bonus of fewer crowds and potential sunset colors.
Yes, the open-air ruins of the 1800s plantation are a unique historical element and make for interesting photographic subjects.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive beach and ocean views. Waterproof camera or phone case is advisable for water activities.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The beach offers plenty of space, so you won't feel on top of other beachgoers, and there are shady spots available for little ones to escape the sun. The hike to the ruins is also manageable for most children, offering a bit of adventure. 🏕️ Campers and Budget Travelers
Even if you're not camping, Cinnamon Bay is a great option as there's no entrance fee, making it a cost-effective way to enjoy a stunning St. John beach. 🚶♀️ Hikers and History Buffs
+1 The trails are accessible and provide beautiful scenic views as you ascend. Combine your historical exploration with a relaxing afternoon on the beach, making it a perfect day trip for the active traveler. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Cinnamon Bay: Beyond the Beach
+1 This historical site provides a fascinating glimpse into the island's past, with remnants of colonial architecture set against a lush tropical backdrop. The trails are generally well-maintained, making them accessible for most visitors, even those in casual footwear. The Virgin Islands National Park encompasses a significant portion of St. John, and Cinnamon Bay is a prime example of its preserved beauty. The park's diverse ecosystem supports abundant wildlife, including various bird species and, notably, three varieties of sea turtles that frequent the waters.
For a truly immersive experience, consider staying at the Cinnamon Bay Campground. It offers a unique opportunity to be closer to nature, with amenities like a camp store providing essentials such as locally roasted coffee, snacks, and even branded merchandise.
+1 Whether you're camping or just visiting for the day, Cinnamon Bay provides a rich tapestry of experiences, from historical exploration to natural immersion.Cinnamon Bay vs. Trunk Bay: Making the Choice
Parking is another key differentiator. Cinnamon Bay typically has more available parking than Trunk Bay, which can be a significant advantage, particularly during peak tourist seasons.
While Trunk Bay might offer a slightly more postcard-perfect view for some, Cinnamon Bay provides a more laid-back and spacious environment. It's an excellent choice for those who prioritize comfort and tranquility over the bustling crowds, allowing for a more personal connection with the stunning Caribbean scenery.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit